With One Eye On A Move To Coconut Grove Playhouse Site Joe Adler Keeps Gablestage Presenting Provocative Plays

After 13 years at the Biltmore Hotel, GableStage and its Director Joseph Adler have become mainstays of South Florida’s cultural community.

In its first 12 seasons the theater has received 50 Carbonell Awards, which recognize excellence in South Florida theaters, and 167 nominations.

The plays, many of which are Florida premiers, often address contemporary issues in unfamiliar settings with the goal of provoking discussion.

"We want to do theater that makes them uncomfortable," Mr. Adler said, "but gives them something to think and talk about after they leave."

As he continues to head the day-to-day operations of the theater, find new plays, funding sources and employ local talent, Mr. Adler is preparing for a possible transition to a new, 300-seat theater at the Coconut Grove Playhouse, double GableStage’s current size.

He discussed the changes the company will undergo if it moves to the Grove and the recent renaissance he’s seen in South Florida’s arts community with Miami Today staff writer Zachary Fagenson.